Conveyor sensor

ABSTRACT

Some embodiments of the technology disclosed herein relate to a sensor device. An elongate sleeve has a first end and a second end and extends along a longitudinal axis. A plurality of sensors are fixed relative to the sleeve. A first endcap is coupled to the first end, where the first endcap has an endcap body. A first axle is coupled to the endcap body, where the first axle extends along the longitudinal axis and the first axle defines a retaining feature. An intermediate component is coupled to the first axle, and the intermediate component is selectively rotatable about the longitudinal axis. The sensor device has an orientation locking structure that is configured to be engaged to selectively fix the orientation of the intermediate component about the longitudinal axis relative to the endcap body.

TECHNOLOGICAL FIELD

The present disclosure is generally related to a sensor. Moreparticularly, the present disclosure is related to a conveyor sensor.

SUMMARY

Some embodiments of the technology disclosed herein relate to a sensordevice. An elongate sleeve has a first end and a second end and extendsalong a longitudinal axis. A plurality of sensors are fixed relative tothe sleeve. A first endcap is coupled to the first end, where the firstendcap has an endcap body. A first axle is coupled to the endcap body,where the first axle extends along the longitudinal axis and the firstaxle defines a retaining feature. An intermediate component is coupledto the first axle, and the intermediate component is selectivelyrotatable about the longitudinal axis. The sensor device has anorientation locking structure that is configured to be engaged toselectively fix the orientation of the intermediate component about thelongitudinal axis relative to the endcap body.

In some such embodiments, the intermediate component is linearlytranslatable relative to the endcap body along the first axle, is freelyrotatable about the longitudinal axis when the intermediate component isin a first linear position relative to the endcap body and has a fixedorientation about the longitudinal axis when the intermediate componentis in a second linear position relative to the endcap body. Additionallyor alternatively, the endcap body has the first axle, where theintermediate component is rotatably disposed about the first axlebetween the endcap body and the retaining feature, and the intermediatecomponent is linearly translatable between the endcap body and theretaining feature.

Additionally or alternatively, the intermediate component has the firstaxle, where the endcap body is rotatably disposed about the first axlebetween the intermediate component and the retaining feature and theendcap body is linearly translatable between the intermediate componentand the retaining feature. Additionally or alternatively, the retainingfeature extends radially outward from a distal end of the first axle.Additionally or alternatively, the intermediate component and the firstendcap mutually define the orientation locking structure thatselectively engages when the intermediate component is in the secondlinear position. Additionally or alternatively, the orientation lockingstructure selectively engages in a plurality of fixed orientations aboutthe first axle when the intermediate component is in the second linearposition relative to the endcap body.

Additionally or alternatively, the orientation locking structure has afirst protrusion extending outward from the endcap body and a series ofprotrusion receptacles defined by the intermediate component, where thefirst protrusion has a radial position relative to the longitudinalaxis, and each of the protrusion receptacles in the series of protrusionreceptacles are in circumferential alignment with the first protrusionto selectively receive the first protrusion. Additionally oralternatively, the first protrusion extends longitudinally outward froma distal end of the endcap body. Additionally or alternatively, theseries of protrusion receptacles are defined by an inner region of theintermediate component.

Additionally or alternatively, the orientation locking structure has afirst protrusion extending outward from the intermediate component and aseries of protrusion receptacles defined by the endcap body, where thefirst protrusion has a radial position relative to the longitudinalaxis, and each of the protrusion receptacles in the series of protrusionreceptacles are each in circumferential alignment with the firstprotrusion to selectively receive the first protrusion. Additionally oralternatively, the first protrusion extends longitudinally inward from aproximal end of the intermediate component. Additionally oralternatively, the series of protrusion receptacles are defined by aninner region of the endcap body.

Additionally or alternatively, the orientation locking structure has afirst protrusion, a first protrusion receptacle defined by theintermediate component and a second protrusion receptacle defined by theendcap body, where the first protrusion receptacle and the secondprotrusion receptacle are configured to mutually receive the firstprotrusion. The sensor device of claim 14, where the intermediatecomponent defines a series of protrusion receptacles in circumferentialalignment with the first protrusion receptacle. Additionally oralternatively, each of the plurality of sensors are linearly alignedrelative to each other. Additionally or alternatively, each of theplurality of sensors are linearly aligned parallel to the longitudinalaxis.

Additionally or alternatively, a second endcap is coupled to the secondend of the sleeve, where the second endcap has a rail coupler that isfreely rotatable relative to the sleeve. Additionally or alternatively,the rail coupler defines a polygonal protrusion and a circularprotrusion, each extending longitudinally outward from a distal end ofthe second endcap. Additionally or alternatively, the polygonalprotrusion is hexagonal. Additionally or alternatively, the secondendcap has a rod translatably disposed in the sleeve and a springcompressibly disposed between the rod and the sleeve, where the railcoupler is rotatably coupled to the rod about a second axle.Additionally or alternatively, the second axle defines a retainingfeature configured to retain the rail coupler thereon. Additionally oralternatively, the intermediate component defines a polygonal protrusionconfigured to receive a corresponding opening in a conveyor rail.Additionally or alternatively, the polygonal protrusion is hexagonal.

In some example configurations disclosed herein, a sensor device has anelongate sleeve extending along a longitudinal axis, where the elongatesleeve has a first end and a second end. A plurality of sensors arefixed relative to the sleeve, a first endcap has an endcap body coupledto the first end, and an intermediate component is coupled to the firstendcap, where the intermediate component is selectively rotatable aboutthe longitudinal axis relative to the endcap body.

In some such embodiments, the sensor device has an orientation lockingstructure configured to be engaged to selectively fix the orientation ofthe intermediate component about the longitudinal axis relative to theendcap body. In some of those embodiments, the orientation lockingstructure is configured to be engaged to selectively fix theintermediate component in each of a plurality of fixed orientationsabout the longitudinal axis relative to the endcap body. Additionally oralternatively, the intermediate component is linearly translatablerelative to the endcap body along the longitudinal axis between a firstlinear position defining a particular maximum linear distance betweenthe endcap body and the intermediate component and a second linearposition defining a minimum linear distance between the endcap body andthe intermediate component, where the intermediate component is freelyrotatable in the first linear position and the intermediate componenthas a fixed orientation about the longitudinal axis in the second linearposition. Additionally or alternatively, a first axle extends along thelongitudinal axis, where the endcap body and the intermediate componentare coupled to the first axle.

Additionally or alternatively, the first endcap has a first axleextending along the longitudinal axis, where the intermediate componentis slidably and rotatably disposed on the first axle and the first axlehas a retaining feature configured to retain the intermediate componenton the first axle. In the first linear position the intermediatecomponent abuts the retaining feature and in the second linear positionthe intermediate component abuts the endcap body. Additionally oralternatively the intermediate component has a first axle extendingalong the longitudinal axis and the endcap body is slidably androtatably disposed on the first axle, where the first axle has aretaining feature on a distal end configured to retain the endcap bodyon the first axle. In the first linear position the endcap body abutsthe retaining feature and in the second linear position the intermediatecomponent abuts the endcap body.

Additionally or alternatively, the retaining feature extends radiallyoutward from a distal end of the first axle. Additionally oralternatively, the intermediate component and the first endcap mutuallydefine an orientation locking structure that selectively engages whenthe intermediate component is in the second linear position anddisengages in the first linear position. Additionally or alternatively,the orientation locking structure selectively engages in a plurality offixed orientations about longitudinal axis when the intermediatecomponent is in the second linear position relative to the endcap body.Additionally or alternatively, the sensor device has a second endcapcoupled to the second end of the sleeve, where the second endcap has arail coupler that is freely rotatable relative to the sleeve.

Additionally or alternatively, the orientation locking structure has afirst protrusion extending outward from the endcap body and a series ofprotrusion receptacles defined by the intermediate component, where thefirst protrusion has a radial position relative to the longitudinal axisand each of the protrusion receptacles in the series of protrusionreceptacles are in circumferential alignment with the first protrusionto selectively receive the first protrusion. Additionally oralternatively, the first protrusion extends longitudinally outward froma distal end of the endcap body. Additionally or alternatively, theseries of protrusion receptacles are defined by an inner region of theintermediate component.

Additionally or alternatively, the orientation locking structure has afirst protrusion extending from the intermediate component and a seriesof protrusion receptacles defined by the endcap body, where the firstprotrusion has a radial position relative the longitudinal axis and eachof the protrusion receptacles in the series of protrusion receptaclesare in circumferential alignment with the first protrusion toselectively receive the first protrusion. Additionally or alternatively,the first protrusion extends longitudinally inward from the intermediatecomponent. Additionally or alternatively, the series of protrusionreceptacles are defined by an inner region of the endcap body.

Additionally or alternatively, the orientation locking structure has afirst protrusion, a first protrusion receptacle defined by theintermediate component, and a second protrusion receptacle defined bythe endcap body, where the first protrusion receptacle and the secondprotrusion receptacle are configured to mutually receive the firstprotrusion. Additionally or alternatively, the intermediate componentdefines a series of protrusion receptacles in circumferential alignmentwith the first protrusion receptacle.

The above summary is not intended to describe each embodiment or everyimplementation. Rather, a more complete understanding of illustrativeembodiments will become apparent and appreciated by reference to thefollowing Detailed Description of Exemplary Embodiments and claims inview of the accompanying figures of the drawing.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The present technology may be more completely understood and appreciatedin consideration of the following detailed description of variousembodiments in connection with the accompanying drawings.

FIG. 1 is an example sensor device consistent with some embodiments ofthe technology disclosed herein.

FIG. 2 is an example first endcap assembly of a sensor device consistentwith FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 is a disassembled perspective view of an example first endcapassembly consistent with FIG. 2.

FIG. 4 is an example cross-sectional view of an example first endcapassembly consistent with FIG. 1 in a first position.

FIG. 5 is an example cross-sectional view of an example first endcapassembly consistent with FIG. 1 in a second position.

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of an example second endcap consistent withFIG. 1.

FIG. 7 depicts a cross-sectional view of another example endcap assemblyconsistent with some embodiments.

FIG. 8 depicts a perspective view of another example second endcapconsistent with some embodiments.

FIG. 9 depicts a partial perspective view of an example conveyor line,consistent with some implementations of the technology disclosed herein.

FIG. 10 depicts a perspective view of another example first endcapassembly consistent with some examples.

FIG. 11 depicts a perspective view of disassembled components consistentwith the example of FIG. 10.

FIG. 12A depicts a cross-sectional view consistent with the example ofFIG. 10.

FIG. 12B depicts a partially exploded cross-sectional view of an exampleconsistent with FIG. 12A.

The figures are rendered primarily for clarity and, as a result, are notnecessarily drawn to scale. Moreover, various structure/components,including but not limited to fasteners, electrical components (wiring,cables, etc.), and the like, may be shown diagrammatically or removedfrom some or all of the views to better illustrate aspects of thedepicted embodiments, or where inclusion of such structure/components isnot necessary to an understanding of the various exemplary embodimentsdescribed herein. The lack of illustration/description of suchstructure/components in a particular figure is, however, not to beinterpreted as limiting the scope of the various embodiments in any way.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The technology disclosed herein generally relates to a sensor devicethat is configured to be positioned in a conveyor line such as, forexample, a portion of a conveyor line 10 depicted in FIG. 9. Theconveyor line 10 can have a conveyor surface 30, here defined by aplurality of rollers 32, that is disposed between two conveyor siderails20 a, 20 b. The sensor device is configured to be coupled to theopposite siderails 20 a, 20 b along the conveyor line 10. In variousembodiments the sensor device is configured to be positioned below theconveyor surface 30 to avoid contact with objects conveyed over theconveyor surface 30. The sensor device can be manually manipulated to befixed in each of a plurality of particular orientations about itslongitudinal axis such that the orientation of the plurality of sensorscan be selected by a user. Advantageously, the sensor device itselfincorporates components that interface with the siderails, which cansimplify adjustability of the sensor device.

FIG. 1 is an example sensor device consistent with some embodiments ofthe technology disclosed herein. The sensor device 100 can generally beconfigured to be installed between conveying rollers of a conveyor line.The sensor device 100 can generally be configured to sense objectstraversing a conveyor line. The sensor device 100 generally has anelongate sleeve 110, a plurality of sensors 120 fixed relative to thesleeve 110, a first endcap assembly 130 coupled to the elongate sleeve110, and a second endcap 160 coupled to the elongate sleeve 110.

The elongate sleeve 110 is generally configured to couple to theplurality of sensors 120 and extend across a conveyor line. The sensors120 are at a particular orientation about a longitudinal axis L. Theelongate sleeve 110 generally extends along the longitudinal axis L. Theelongate sleeve 110 has a first end 112 and a second end 114. The secondend 114 is generally opposite the first end 112. In the current examplethe elongate sleeve 110 is generally cylindrical with a circularcross-section. in other embodiments the elongate sleeve 110 can define aprism with a polygonal cross-section. In some other embodiments theelongate sleeve 110 can define an elliptical cylinder. Other shapes arecertainly contemplated.

The plurality of sensors 120 that are fixed relative to the sleeve 110can be a variety of different types and combinations of sensors. In someembodiments an ultrasonic sensor is at least one of the plurality ofsensors 120. In some embodiments a photoelectric sensor is at least oneof the plurality of sensors 120. In some embodiments at least one of theplurality of sensors 120 is a proximity sensor. In some embodiments, anaccelerometer is at least one of the plurality of sensors 120. Invarious embodiments, at least a portion of each of the plurality ofsensors is housed by the elongate sleeve 110. In the current example,each of the plurality of sensors 120 are linearly aligned relative toeach other. In some alternate embodiments, one or more of the pluralityof sensors is not aligned with another one of the plurality of sensors.Furthermore, in the current example, each of the plurality of sensors120 are linearly aligned parallel to the longitudinal axis L.

The first endcap assembly 130 is coupled to the first end 112 of thesleeve 110. The first endcap assembly 130 can have a first endcap 150and an intermediate component 140. The first endcap 150 is coupled tothe first end 112 of the sleeve 110. In the current example, the firstendcap 150 is configured, at least in part, to provide an obstructionthrough the first end 112 of the sleeve 110. In some embodiments, thefirst endcap 150 forms a frictional fit with the first end 112 of thesleeve 110. The first endcap 150 generally has an endcap body 151. Thefirst endcap 150 will be described in more detail below with referenceto FIGS. 2 and 3.

The intermediate component 140 is generally configured to couple thefirst end 112 of the sleeve 110 to a conveyor system, such as a conveyorrail. The intermediate component 140 is generally configured toselectively rotate relative to the first endcap 150 and the sleeve 110.For example, the intermediate component 140 is freely rotatable aboutthe longitudinal axis L relative to the first endcap 150 in a firstposition, and, in a second position, the intermediate component 140 isnon-rotatable about the longitudinal axis L relative to the first endcap150. Such functionality and configurations will be described in moredetail below.

In the current example, the intermediate component 140 defines a railmating feature 142 that is configured to mate with a correspondingsurface defined by the conveyor rail. In the current example, the railmating feature 142 is a protrusion that extends longitudinally outwardfrom the sleeve 110. The protrusion can be a polygonal protrusion suchas, in the example depicted, a hexagonal protrusion. The hexagonalprotrusion can be configured to mate with a corresponding hexagonalrecess defined by the conveyor rail. In some other embodiments themating feature can be a recess that is configured to receive acorresponding protrusion of a conveyor rail. Example structures of theintermediate component 140 will be described in more detail below.

The second endcap 160 is coupled to the second end 114 of the sleeve110. In the current example, the second endcap 160 is generallyconfigured to, at least in part, provide an obstruction through thesecond end 114 of the sleeve 110. The second endcap 160 has a railcoupler 162 that is generally freely rotatable about the longitudinalaxis L relative to the sleeve 110. Example structures and configurationsconsistent with the second endcap 160 will be described in more detailbelow.

When the sensor device 100 is properly installed between conveyor rails(such as conveyor siderails 20 a and 20 b depicted in FIG. 9) in aconveyor line and the intermediate component 140 is in the firstposition (enabling relative rotation between the intermediate component140 and the sleeve 110), a user can rotate the sleeve 110 relative tothe intermediate component 140 and the rail coupler 162 to position theplurality of sensors 120 in the desired orientation about thelongitudinal axis L. When the desired orientation of the plurality ofsensors 120 is achieved, the intermediate component 140 can be shiftedto the second position, such that the sleeve 110 is non-rotatablerelative to the intermediate component 140.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of an example first endcap assembly 130consistent with a sensor device of FIG. 1, where the intermediatecomponent 140 and the first endcap 150 are components of the firstendcap assembly 130. FIG. 3 is a disassembled perspective view of anexample first endcap assembly 130 consistent with FIG. 2. FIG. 4 is across-sectional view of the first endcap assembly when the first endcapand the intermediate component are in a first position relative to eachother and FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of the first endcap assemblywhen the first endcap and the intermediate component are in a secondposition relative to each other. Each of these drawings will bereferenced with the description here.

Referring first to FIG. 2, the first endcap 150 is configured to becoupled to the first end 112 of the sleeve 110 (see FIG. 1). A sleeveinsertion portion 158 is configured to be inserted into the first end112 of the sleeve 110. In some other configurations the first endcap 150can be configured to cover the first end 112 of the sleeve 110. Invarious embodiments the first endcap 150 frictionally engages the sleeve110. In various additional or alternative embodiments the first endcap150 is coupled to the sleeve 110 through the use of an adhesive,fasteners (such as screws or bolts), and the like.

The intermediate component 140 is coupled to the first endcap 150 and isselectively rotatable relative to the first endcap 150. In particular,as best visible in FIG. 3, the first endcap 150 has an endcap body 151and a first axle 152 coupled to the endcap body 151. The first axle 152extends outwardly from the endcap body 151. The first axle 152 extendsalong the longitudinal axis L. The intermediate component 140 isrotatably disposed about the first axle 152. More specifically, theintermediate component 140 defines an axle opening 146 that receives thefirst axle 152.

In the current example, the first axle 152 defines a retaining feature154 that is configured to retain the intermediate component 140 on thefirst axle 152. In particular, the retaining feature 154 extendsradially outward from a distal end of the first axle 152 and has anouter dimension D₁ that exceeds an outer diameter D₂ of the axle opening146 (see FIG. 4), where the outer dimension and the outer diameter areperpendicular to the longitudinal axis L. As such, the intermediatecomponent 140 is rotatably disposed between the endcap body 151 and theretaining feature 154. It is noted that a “distal end” as used herein isdefined as an end of the relevant component that is configured to besituated furthest from the sleeve 110 and is distinguished from a“proximal end” that is configured to be situated closest to the sleeve110.

The intermediate component 140 and the first axle 152 of the firstendcap 150 can form a snap fit in various embodiments, where the firstaxle 152 is elastically compressed to pass through the axle opening 146and, once through the axle opening 146, the first axle 152 expands toretain the intermediate component 140 on the first axle 152. In thecurrent example, the first axle defines a first portion 152 a, a secondportion 152 b, and a clearance 153 that separates the first portion 152a and second portion 152 b. The first portion 152 a and/or the secondportion 152 b are configured to flex towards the clearance 153 andcompress to pass through the axle opening 146. Upon passage through theaxle opening 146, the first portion 152 a and second portion 152 b (andthe corresponding retaining features 154 a and 154 b) are configured tospring outward, to expand away from the clearance 153, which secures theintermediate component 140 on the first axle 152.

The retaining feature 154 a, 154 b is generally configured to retain theintermediate component 140 on the first endcap 150 under normaloperating conditions and forces, such as during installation and removalof the sensor assembly 100 from a conveyor line. The retaining feature154 a, 154 b is generally configured to retain the intermediatecomponent 140 on the first endcap 150 absent the application of pressureand force on the intermediate component 140 and the first endcap 150sufficient to decouple the intermediate component 140 and the firstendcap 150. Such a configuration improves handleability of the sensordevice 100 during installation, as an intermediate component that is aseparate component from the first endcap would need to be manuallypositioned separately from the rest of the sensor device 100. It will beappreciated that the retaining feature 154 a, 154 b can have alternateconfigurations as well, one of which will be described with reference toFIG. 7, below, and another of which will be described with reference toFIG. 11, below.

The intermediate component 140 is generally linearly translatable in thelongitudinal direction L₁, L₂ along the first axle 152 relative to theendcap body 151. In the current example, the intermediate component islinearly translatable between the endcap body 151 and the retainingfeature 154. FIG. 4 depicts the intermediate component 140 in a firstlinear position relative to the first endcap 150, and FIG. 5 depicts theintermediate component 140 in a second linear position relative to thefirst endcap 150. The first linear position can define a particularmaximum linear distance d_(max) between the intermediate component 140and the first endcap 150 and the second linear position can define aminimum linear distance drain between the intermediate component 140 andthe first endcap 150. In the first linear position relative to theendcap body 151 (FIG. 4), the intermediate component 140 is freelyrotatable about the longitudinal axis L. In the second linear positionrelative to the endcap body 151 (FIG. 5), the intermediate component 140has a fixed orientation about the longitudinal axis L.

As best visible in FIG. 3, the intermediate component 140 and the firstendcap 150 mutually define an orientation locking structure 144, 156that selectively engages when the intermediate component 140 is in thesecond linear position (as depicted in FIG. 5) and is disengaged in thefirst linear position (as depicted in FIG. 4). In this example, theorientation locking structure 144, 156 is defined by mating features onthe intermediate component 140 and the first endcap 150. The orientationlocking structure 144, 156 can disengage when the intermediate component140 is in the first linear position relative to the endcap body 151 (asdepicted in FIG. 4).

The orientation locking structure 144, 156 is generally configured toselectively fix the orientation of the intermediate component about thelongitudinal axis relative to the endcap body 151. The orientationlocking structure 144, 156 can selectively fix the orientation of theintermediate component 140 about the longitudinal axis L (relative tothe endcap body 151) to each of a plurality of discrete, fixedorientations about the longitudinal axis L when the intermediatecomponent 140 is in the second linear position relative to the endcapbody 151. The orientation locking structure 144, 156 can selectivelyengage in each of a plurality of fixed orientations about the first axle152 when the intermediate component 140 is in the second linear positionrelative to the endcap body 151.

The orientation locking structure 144, 156 can have a variety ofdifferent configurations, but in the example associated with FIGS. 2-5,the first endcap 150 defines a first protrusion 156 that extendslongitudinally outward from the endcap body 151. The intermediatecomponent 140 defines a series of protrusion receptacles 144 that areeach configured to receive the first protrusion 156 (FIG. 3). The seriesof protrusion receptacles 144 are configured to be rotated into linearalignment with the first protrusion 156. The series of protrusionreceptacles 144 are positioned circumferentially about the axle opening146 and are equidistant from the axle opening 146 and, as such, theprotrusions receptacles 144 are in circumferential alignment. Similarly,the series of protrusion receptacles 144 are positionedcircumferentially about the axle opening 146 and are equidistant fromthe longitudinal axis L₁.

The first protrusion 156 has a radial position relative to the firstaxle 152 and/or the longitudinal axis L, and each of the protrusionreceptacles 144 have a corresponding radial position relative to thefirst axle 152 and/or the longitudinal axis L such that the protrusionreceptacles 144 are in circumferential alignment with each other andwith the first protrusion 156. The first protrusion 156 has a radialdistance R₂ (see FIGS. 3 and 4) from the longitudinal axis L₂ that isequal to the radial distance R₁ between each of the protrusionreceptacles 144 and the longitudinal axis L₁, where the distance ismeasured based on a center point of the first protrusion 156 and theprotrusion receptacles 144.

In the current example, the orientation locking structure 144, 156 isconsidered engaged when one of the series of protrusion receptacles 144receives the first protrusion 156, which prevents rotation of the firstendcap 150 relative to the intermediate component 140. In the firstlinear position (FIG. 4) the first protrusion 156 is outside each of theprotrusion receptacles 144 such that the intermediate component 140 andthe first endcap 150 are rotatable relative to each other. In thecurrent example, in the first linear position, the intermediatecomponent 140 abuts the retaining feature 154. In the second linearposition (FIG. 5) the first protrusion 156 is received by the protrusionreceptacle 144 a such that the intermediate component 140 and the firstendcap 150 are non-rotatable relative to each other. In this example, inthe second linear position, the intermediate component 140 abuts theendcap body 151.

While the series of protrusion receptacles 144 are currently defined byan inner region of the intermediate component 140 and the firstprotrusion 156 is currently defined by an inner region of the firstendcap 150, other configurations are certainly contemplated. In someembodiments, such as the example endcap assembly 230 depicted in FIG. 7,an intermediate component 240 has a first protrusion 244 that extendslongitudinally inward (towards the sleeve 110) and the first endcap 250defines a series of protrusion receptacles 256 (only one of which isvisible in FIG. 7) configured to receive the first protrusion 244. Suchan orientation locking structure can be defined by corresponding innerregions of the intermediate component 240 and the first endcap 250. Insome embodiments the first endcap and the intermediate component definean orientation locking structure on corresponding outer regions.

Furthermore, in FIGS. 2-5, while the first endcap 150 has the first axle152 and the intermediate component 140 defines the axle opening 146, insome embodiments, such as the one depicted in FIG. 7, an intermediatecomponent 240 can define a first axle 246 and a first endcap 250 candefine the axle opening 252. In such an example, the intermediatecomponent 240 and the first endcap 250 can have similar lineartranslatability and rotatability relative to each other as has beendescribed in reference to FIGS. 1-5, above.

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of an example second endcap 160 consistentwith FIG. 1. The second endcap 160 is configured to be coupled to thesecond end 114 of the elongate sleeve 110 (FIG. 1). The second endcap160 is configured, at least in part, to provide an obstruction throughthe second end 114 of the sleeve 110. In the current example, the secondendcap 160 has a sleeve coupler 166 and a rail coupler 162.

The sleeve coupler 166 can have a variety of configurations, but in thecurrent example is configured to be inserted into the second end 114 ofthe sleeve 110 (FIG. 1). The sleeve coupler 166 can be configured tofrictionally engage the sleeve 110. In the current example, the outersurface of the sleeve coupler 166 frictionally engages an inner surfaceof the sleeve 110, and frictional forces between those surfacesmaintains the position of the sleeve coupler 166 relative to the sleeve110. In some other embodiments, the sleeve coupler 166 can be configuredto cover the second end 114 of the sleeve 110. The sleeve coupler 166can additionally or alternatively be coupled to the second end of thesleeve through the use of an adhesive, fasteners (such as screws orbolts), and the like. In various embodiments, the sleeve coupler 166 isnon-rotatable and non-translatable relative to the sleeve 110.

The rail coupler 162 is generally consistent with the discussions above.In the current example, the rail coupler 162 defines a polygonalprotrusion 162 a extending longitudinally outward from a distal end ofthe second endcap 160. The polygonal protrusion 162 a can be configuredto engage a corresponding opening in a siderail of a conveyor system. Inthe current example, the polygonal protrusion 162 a is hexagonal, butother polygonal shapes could certainly be used, as has been discussedabove with reference to the intermediate component 140. In the currentexample the rail coupler 162 also defines a circular protrusion 162 bextending longitudinally outward from a distal end of the second endcap160. The circular protrusion 162 b is also configured to engage acorresponding opening in a siderail of a conveyor system. Because therail coupler 162 has a polygonal protrusion 162 a and a circularprotrusion 162 b, the rail coupler 162 can be coupled to siderails ofconveyor systems having differently-shaped openings. In some embodimentsone of the polygonal protrusion 162 a and the circular protrusion 162 bcan be omitted.

In the current example, the second endcap 160 also has a rod 164 thatthe rail coupler 162 is coupled to. The rod 164 has a second axle 168extending longitudinally outward from the rod 164, and the rail coupler162 is rotatably disposed on the second axle 168. The second axle 168 isconfigured consistently with the description of the first axle 152,discussed above with reference to FIGS. 2-5. For example, the secondaxle 168 can define a retaining feature 169 extending radially outwardfrom a distal end of the second axle 168, which is configured to retainthe rail coupler 162. The second axle 168 and the rail coupler 162 canbe configured to form a snap fit connection, also as discussed abovewith respect to the first axle 152.

The rod 164 is linearly translatable along the longitudinal axis Lrelative to the sleeve coupler 166 and, therefore, the sleeve 110. Assuch, the rail coupler 162 is linearly translatable along thelongitudinal axis L relative to the sleeve coupler 166 and the sleeve110. A spring 170 is compressibly disposed between the rod 164 and thesleeve coupler 166 and, therefore, the spring 170 is compressiblydisposed between the rail coupler 162 and the sleeve. The spring 170 canbias the rail coupler 162 in an extended configuration. Such aconfiguration can facilitate installation of the sensor device 100between rails in a conveyor line such that when the rail coupler 162 istranslated towards the sleeve 110 along the longitudinal axis L, thesensor device 100 can be positioned between the conveyor rails, and whenthe rail coupler 162 is released, the sensor device 100 lengthens toengage each conveyor rail. The spring 170 can exert sufficient outwardforce on the conveyor rail to create positive engagement between thesensor device and the conveyor rails.

The spring 170 allows the sensor device to accommodate various distancesbetween siderails of the conveyor. Additionally, to select the radialorientation of the plurality of sensors 120 about the longitudinal axisL of the sleeve 110, a user translates the first endcap 150 away fromthe intermediate component 140 (by overcoming the biasing force of thespring 170) to introduce a clearance between the first protrusion 156and the intermediate component 140 (such as depicted in FIG. 4). Thefirst endcap 150 (and therefore the sleeve 110, sleeve coupler 166, andthe sensors 120) are rotated relative to the intermediate component 140to axially align the first protrusion 156 with a particular protrusionreceptacle 144 a of the intermediate component 140. Such rotation isenabled, in part, by the free rotation of the sleeve 110 and sleevecoupler 166 relative to the rail coupler 162. The first protrusion 156is then inserted into the selected protrusion receptacle 144, which canbe facilitated by the spring force when the first endcap 150 is releasedby the user. Once positioned, the spring 170 exerts a biasing forcesufficient to maintain the position of the first protrusion 156 in theparticular protrusion receptacle 144 a of the intermediate component140.

In an alternative example, the rail coupler can be slidably disposed onthe second axle, and a spring can be disposed between the rail couplerand the rod. In some examples, a spring can be disposed between thesleeve and the sleeve coupler, and the sleeve coupler is slidablerelative to the sleeve.

FIG. 8 depicts an alternate example second endcap 260 having a sleevecoupler 266 and a rail coupler 262 and lacking a spring. The secondendcap 260 can be coupled to the second end of the sleeve (such as thesecond end 114 of the sleeve 110 depicted in FIG. 1). The rail coupler262 has a polygonal protrusion 262 a and a circular protrusion 262 b asdiscussed above with reference to FIG. 6. The sleeve coupler 266 isconfigured to couple to a second end of a sleeve, as discussed abovewith reference to FIG. 6. Unlike the example in FIG. 6, here the sleevecoupler 266 has a second axle 268. The rail coupler 262 is rotatablydisposed on the second axle 268. Similar to the example of FIG. 6, thesecond axle 268 defines a retaining feature 269 that is configured toretain the rail coupler 262.

FIGS. 10-12B depicts another example first endcap assembly 330consistent with some examples. FIG. 10 is a perspective view of such anassembly 330, FIG. 11 is a perspective view of the disassembledcomponents of the assembly, FIG. 12A is a cross-sectional view of FIG.10, and FIG. 12B is a partially exploded cross-sectional view consistentwith FIG. 12A. Each of these drawings will be referenced with thedescription here. The first endcap assembly 330 has a first endcap 350having an endcap body 351 and an intermediate component 340 coupled tothe first endcap 350.

The first endcap 350 is configured to be coupled to a first end of asleeve, such as a sleeve consistent with that described above withreference to FIG. 1. A sleeve insertion portion 358 of the first endcap350 is configured to be inserted into a first end of such a sleeve. Insome embodiments, the first endcap 350 can be configured to cover thefirst end of the sleeve. The first endcap 350 can be coupled to thesleeve through approaches discussed herein above.

The intermediate component 340 is configured to couple the first endcap350 to a conveyor rail (such as conveyor rail 20 a depicted in FIG. 9),and can have one or more rail mating features 342 a, 342 b (visible inFIGS. 12A-B) that are each configured to mate with a correspondingstructure of the conveyor rail (20 a in FIG. 9, for example). Theintermediate component 340 is selectively rotatable relative to thefirst endcap 350. The intermediate component 340 and the first endcap350 are coupled to a first axle 342 such that the intermediate component340 is selectively rotatable about a longitudinal axis L relative to thefirst endcap 350. In particular, as best visible in FIG. 11, theintermediate component 340 is coupled to a first axle 342 extendingalong its longitudinal axis L₁. The first axle 342 extendslongitudinally inward from the intermediate component 340. The firstendcap 350 has an endcap body 351 and defines axle opening 352, wherethe axle opening 352 extends along the longitudinal axis L₂ of the firstendcap 350. The axle opening 352 is configured to receive the first axle342. The intermediate component 340 is rotatably disposed about thelongitudinal axis L relative to the first endcap 350.

The first axle 342 defines a retaining feature 346 that is configured toretain the intermediate component 340 to the first endcap 350, and thefirst endcap 350 on the first axle 342. In particular, the retainingfeature 346 extends radially outward from a proximal end of the firstaxle 342 and has an outer dimension D₁ (FIG. 12b ) that exceeds an outerdiameter D₂ (best visible in FIG. 12b ) of the axle opening 352, wherethe outer dimension D₁ and the outer diameter D₂ are perpendicular tothe longitudinal axis L. The axle opening 352 is defined by acircumferential flange 354 having an outer diameter D₂ that retains thefirst axle 342 within the axle opening 352. The first axle 342 isrotatable within the axle opening 352 and, as such, the intermediatecomponent 340 is rotatable about the longitudinal axis L relative to thefirst endcap 350.

As discussed above with regard to previous example embodiments, thefirst axle 342 and the axle opening 352 can form a snap fit, where thefirst axle 342 is elastically compressed to pass through the axleopening 352 and, once through the axle opening 352, the first axle 342expands to retain the intermediate component 340 on the first axle 342.In the current example, the first axle 342 is cumulatively defined by aseries of prongs 345 arranged circumferentially about the longitudinalaxis L₁ (FIG. 11) and their respective retaining features 346, where aclearance 344 is defined between each of the prongs in the series ofprongs 345. Each of the prongs in the series of prongs 345 areconfigured to flex towards the longitudinal axis L₁ to compress to passthrough the axle opening 352. Upon passage through the axle opening 352,each prong in the series of prongs 345 are configured to spring radiallyoutward, which secures the intermediate component 340 to the firstendcap 350 because the circumferential flange 354 blocks the retainingfeature 346 from translating out of the axle opening 352.

Similar to previous examples, the retaining feature 346 is generallyconfigured to retain the intermediate component 340 on the first endcap350 under normal operating conditions. Such a configuration improveshandleability of the sensor device (such as a sensor device depicted inFIG. 1) during installation, as an intermediate component that is aseparate component from the first endcap would need to be manuallypositioned separately from the rest of the sensor device.

In some embodiments consistent with the current example, theintermediate component 340 is not linearly translatable in thelongitudinal direction L relative to the endcap body 351. In some otherembodiments, the intermediate component 340 can be linearly translatablein the longitudinal direction L relative to the endcap body 351.

Similar to previous examples, here the endcap assembly 330 has anorientation locking structure 371, 344, 356 that is configured toselectively fix the orientation of the intermediate component about thelongitudinal axis L relative to the endcap body 351. The orientationlocking structure 371, 344, 356 can selectively fix the orientation ofthe intermediate component 340 about the longitudinal axis L (relativeto the endcap body 351) to each of a plurality of discrete, fixedorientations about the longitudinal axis L. The orientation lockingstructure 371, 344, 356 can selectively engage in each of a plurality offixed orientations about the longitudinal axis L.

In this example, the endcap assembly 330 has a pin assembly 370, wherethe pin assembly 370, the intermediate component 340 and the firstendcap 350 mutually define the orientation locking structure 371, 344,356 that is selectively engaged and disengaged. In this example, theorientation locking structure 371, 344, 356 is defined by matingfeatures on the intermediate component 340, the first endcap 350, andthe pin assembly 370. Particularly, the pin assembly 370 has a firstprotrusion 371 that is configured to be mutually received by a firstprotrusion receptacle 344 a defined by the intermediate component 340and a second protrusion receptacle 356 defined by the first endcap 350,which is depicted in FIG. 12A. FIG. 12B shows a partially exploded viewwith the pin assembly 370 decoupled from the intermediate component 340and the first endcap 350.

Here the intermediate component 340 defines a series of protrusionreceptacles 344 that are each configured to receive the first protrusion371. The series of protrusion receptacles 344 are positionedcircumferentially about the longitudinal axis L₁ and are equidistantfrom the longitudinal axis L. Each protrusion receptacle in the seriesof protrusion receptacles 344 are in circumferential alignment with thefirst protrusion receptacle 344 a such that each protrusion receptaclein the series of protrusion receptacles 344 are configured to be rotatedinto radial alignment with the second protrusion receptacle 356. When aparticular protrusion receptacle, such as the first protrusionreceptacle 344 a, of the intermediate component 340 is rotated intoradial alignment with the second protrusion receptacle 356 of the firstendcap, the first protrusion receptacle 344 a and the second protrusionreceptacle 356 are configured to mutually receive the first protrusion371 of the pin assembly 370 to engage the orientation locking structure371, 344, 356, which fixes the orientation of the intermediate component340 about the longitudinal axis L relative to the first endcap 350. Whenthe orientation locking structure 371, 344, 356 is disengaged such thatthe first protrusion 371 is outside of the relevant protrusionreceptacles 344, 356, the intermediate component 340 is rotatable aboutthe longitudinal axis relative to the first endcap 350.

In embodiments consistent with the current example, the pin assembly 370also has an engagement feature 374 and a clamping structure 372. Theengagement feature 374 is configured to be grasped (manually orotherwise) by a user to insert and remove the pin 371 to/from thecorresponding protrusion receptacles. The clamping structure 372 isconfigured to frictionally engage one or both of the intermediatecomponent 340 and the first endcap 350 to maintain the position of thepin 371 in the first and second protrusion receptacles 344 a, 356.

It should be noted that in some embodiments, such as those consistentwith the current example, the clearance 344 defined between each of theprongs in the series of prongs 345 defining the first axle 342 are theprotrusion receptacles 344. In some other embodiments the clearance canbe distinct from the protrusion receptacles.

It should also be noted that, as used in this specification and theappended claims, the phrase “configured” describes a system, apparatus,or other structure that is constructed to perform a particular task oradopt a particular configuration. The word “configured” can be usedinterchangeably with similar words such as “arranged”, “constructed”,“manufactured”, and the like.

All publications and patent applications in this specification areindicative of the level of ordinary skill in the art to which thistechnology pertains. All publications and patent applications are hereinincorporated by reference to the same extent as if each individualpublication or patent application was specifically and individuallyindicated by reference. In the event that any inconsistency existsbetween the disclosure of the present application and the disclosure(s)of any document incorporated herein by reference, the disclosure of thepresent application shall govern.

This application is intended to cover adaptations or variations of thepresent subject matter. It is to be understood that the abovedescription is intended to be illustrative, and not restrictive, and theclaims are not limited to the illustrative embodiments as set forthherein.

What is claimed is:
 1. A sensor device comprising: an elongate sleeveextending along a longitudinal axis, wherein the elongate sleeve has afirst end and a second end; a plurality of sensors fixed relative to thesleeve; a first endcap having an endcap body coupled to the first end;an intermediate component coupled to the first endcap, wherein theintermediate component is selectively rotatable about the longitudinalaxis relative to the endcap body; and a second endcap coupled to thesecond end of the sleeve, wherein the second endcap has a rail couplerthat is freely rotatable relative to the sleeve.
 2. A sensor device ofclaim 1, further comprising an orientation locking structure configuredto be engaged to selectively fix the orientation of the intermediatecomponent about the longitudinal axis relative to the endcap body.
 3. Asensor device of claim 2, wherein the orientation locking structure isconfigured to be engaged to selectively fix the intermediate componentin each of a plurality of fixed orientations about the longitudinal axisrelative to the endcap body.
 4. A sensor device of claim 1, wherein theintermediate component is linearly translatable relative to the endcapbody along the longitudinal axis between a first linear positiondefining a particular maximum linear distance between the endcap bodyand the intermediate component and a second linear position defining aminimum linear distance between the endcap body and the intermediatecomponent, where the intermediate component is freely rotatable in thefirst linear position, and the intermediate component has a fixedorientation about the longitudinal axis in the second linear position.5. A sensor device of claim 1, further comprising a first axle extendingalong the longitudinal axis, wherein the endcap body and theintermediate component are coupled to the first axle.
 6. A sensor deviceof claim 4, wherein the first endcap comprises a first axle extendingalong the longitudinal axis, wherein the intermediate component isslidably and rotatably disposed on the first axle and the first axle hasa retaining feature configured to retain the intermediate component onthe first axle, and wherein in the first linear position theintermediate component abuts the retaining feature and in the secondlinear position the intermediate component abuts the endcap body.
 7. Thesensor device of claim 4, wherein the intermediate component comprises afirst axle extending along the longitudinal axis and the endcap body isslidably and rotatably disposed on the first axle, wherein the firstaxle has a retaining feature on a distal end configured to retain theendcap body on the first axle, and wherein in the first linear positionthe endcap body abuts the retaining feature and in the second linearposition the intermediate component abuts the endcap body.
 8. The sensordevice of claim 5, further comprising a retaining feature extendingradially outward from a distal end of the first axle.
 9. The sensordevice of claim 4, wherein the intermediate component and the firstendcap mutually define an orientation locking structure that selectivelyengages when the intermediate component is in the second linear positionand disengages in the first linear position.
 10. The sensor device ofclaim 9, wherein the orientation locking structure selectively engagesin a plurality of fixed orientations about the longitudinal axis whenthe intermediate component is in the second linear position relative tothe endcap body.
 11. The sensor device of claim 1, wherein the railcoupler defines a polygonal protrusion and a circular protrusion, eachextending longitudinally outward from a distal end of the second endcap.12. The sensor device of claim 1, wherein the second endcap furthercomprises: a rod translatably disposed in the sleeve; and a springcompressibly disposed between the rod and the sleeve, wherein the railcoupler is rotatably coupled to the rod about a second axle.
 13. Thesensor device of claim 12, wherein the second axle defines a retainingfeature configured to retain the rail coupler.
 14. The sensor device ofclaim 9, wherein the orientation locking structure comprises: a firstprotrusion extending outward from the endcap body; and a series ofprotrusion receptacles defined by the intermediate component, whereinthe first protrusion has a radial position relative to the longitudinalaxis, and each of the protrusion receptacles in the series of protrusionreceptacles are in circumferential alignment with the first protrusionto selectively receive the first protrusion.
 15. The sensor device ofclaim 14, wherein the first protrusion extends longitudinally outwardfrom a distal end of the endcap body.
 16. The sensor device of claim 14,wherein the series of protrusion receptacles are defined by an innerregion of the intermediate component.
 17. The sensor device of claim 9,wherein the orientation locking structure comprises: a first protrusionextending from the intermediate component; and a series of protrusionreceptacles defined by the endcap body, wherein the first protrusion hasa radial position relative the longitudinal axis, and each of theprotrusion receptacles in the series of protrusion receptacles are incircumferential alignment with the first protrusion to selectivelyreceive the first protrusion.
 18. The sensor device of claim 17, whereinthe first protrusion extends longitudinally inward from the intermediatecomponent.
 19. The sensor device of claim 17, wherein the series ofprotrusion receptacles are defined by an inner region of the endcapbody.
 20. The sensor device of claim 3, wherein the orientation lockingstructure comprises: a first protrusion; a first protrusion receptacledefined by the intermediate component; and a second protrusionreceptacle defined by the endcap body, wherein the first protrusionreceptacle and the second protrusion receptacle are configured tomutually receive the first protrusion.
 21. The sensor device of claim20, wherein the intermediate component defines a series of protrusionreceptacles in circumferential alignment with the first protrusionreceptacle.
 22. A sensor device comprising: an elongate sleeve extendingalong a longitudinal axis, wherein the elongate sleeve has a first endand a second end; a plurality of sensors fixed relative to the sleeve; afirst endcap having an endcap body coupled to the first end; and anintermediate component coupled to the first endcap, wherein theintermediate component is selectively rotatable about the longitudinalaxis relative to the endcap body, wherein the intermediate component islinearly translatable relative to the endcap body along the longitudinalaxis between a first linear position defining a particular maximumlinear distance between the endcap body and the intermediate componentand a second linear position defining a minimum linear distance betweenthe endcap body and the intermediate component, where the intermediatecomponent is freely rotatable in the first linear position, and theintermediate component has a fixed orientation about the longitudinalaxis in the second linear position, and wherein the first endcapcomprises a first axle extending along the longitudinal axis, whereinthe intermediate component is slidably and rotatably disposed on thefirst axle and the first axle has a retaining feature configured toretain the intermediate component on the first axle, and wherein in thefirst linear position the intermediate component abuts the retainingfeature and in the second linear position the intermediate componentabuts the endcap body.
 23. A sensor device comprising: an elongatesleeve extending along a longitudinal axis, wherein the elongate sleevehas a first end and a second end; a plurality of sensors fixed relativeto the sleeve; a first endcap having an endcap body coupled to the firstend; and an intermediate component coupled to the first endcap, whereinthe intermediate component is selectively rotatable about thelongitudinal axis relative to the endcap body, wherein the intermediatecomponent is linearly translatable relative to the endcap body along thelongitudinal axis between a first linear position defining a particularmaximum linear distance between the endcap body and the intermediatecomponent and a second linear position defining a minimum lineardistance between the endcap body and the intermediate component, wherethe intermediate component is freely rotatable in the first linearposition, and the intermediate component has a fixed orientation aboutthe longitudinal axis in the second linear position, and wherein theintermediate component comprises a first axle extending along thelongitudinal axis and the endcap body is slidably and rotatably disposedon the first axle, wherein the first axle has a retaining feature on adistal end configured to retain the endcap body on the first axle, andwherein in the first linear position the endcap body abuts the retainingfeature and in the second linear position the intermediate componentabuts the endcap body.
 24. A sensor device comprising: an elongatesleeve extending along a longitudinal axis, wherein the elongate sleevehas a first end and a second end; a plurality of sensors fixed relativeto the sleeve; a first endcap having an endcap body coupled to the firstend; and an intermediate component coupled to the first endcap, whereinthe intermediate component is selectively rotatable about thelongitudinal axis relative to the endcap body, wherein the intermediatecomponent is linearly translatable relative to the endcap body along thelongitudinal axis between a first linear position defining a particularmaximum linear distance between the endcap body and the intermediatecomponent and a second linear position defining a minimum lineardistance between the endcap body and the intermediate component, wherethe intermediate component is freely rotatable in the first linearposition, and the intermediate component has a fixed orientation aboutthe longitudinal axis in the second linear position, and wherein theintermediate component and the first endcap mutually define anorientation locking structure that selectively engages when theintermediate component is in the second linear position and disengagesin the first linear position, and wherein the orientation lockingstructure comprises: a first protrusion extending outward from theendcap body; and a series of protrusion receptacles defined by theintermediate component, wherein the first protrusion has a radialposition relative to the longitudinal axis, and each of the protrusionreceptacles in the series of protrusion receptacles are incircumferential alignment with the first protrusion to selectivelyreceive the first protrusion.
 25. A sensor device comprising: anelongate sleeve extending along a longitudinal axis, wherein theelongate sleeve has a first end and a second end; a plurality of sensorsfixed relative to the sleeve; a first endcap having an endcap bodycoupled to the first end; and an intermediate component coupled to thefirst endcap, wherein the intermediate component is selectivelyrotatable about the longitudinal axis relative to the endcap body,wherein the intermediate component is linearly translatable relative tothe endcap body along the longitudinal axis between a first linearposition defining a particular maximum linear distance between theendcap body and the intermediate component and a second linear positiondefining a minimum linear distance between the endcap body and theintermediate component, where the intermediate component is freelyrotatable in the first linear position, and the intermediate componenthas a fixed orientation about the longitudinal axis in the second linearposition, wherein the intermediate component and the first endcapmutually define an orientation locking structure that selectivelyengages when the intermediate component is in the second linear positionand disengages in the first linear position, and wherein the orientationlocking structure comprises: a first protrusion extending from theintermediate component; and a series of protrusion receptacles definedby the endcap body, wherein the first protrusion has a radial positionrelative the longitudinal axis, and each of the protrusion receptaclesin the series of protrusion receptacles are in circumferential alignmentwith the first protrusion to selectively receive the first protrusion.26. A sensor device comprising: an elongate sleeve extending along alongitudinal axis, wherein the elongate sleeve has a first end and asecond end; a plurality of sensors fixed relative to the sleeve; a firstendcap having an endcap body coupled to the first end; an intermediatecomponent coupled to the first endcap, wherein the intermediatecomponent is selectively rotatable about the longitudinal axis relativeto the endcap body, and an orientation locking structure configured tobe engaged to selectively fix the orientation of the intermediatecomponent in each of a plurality of fixed orientations about thelongitudinal axis relative to the endcap body, wherein the orientationlocking structure comprises: a first protrusion; a first protrusionreceptacle defined by the intermediate component; and a secondprotrusion receptacle defined by the endcap body, wherein the firstprotrusion receptacle and the second protrusion receptacle areconfigured to mutually receive the first protrusion.